We’ve all experienced that itch that seemed impossible to scratch.
You may think about this in a couple of different ways: The first thing you might think of is that bucket list item you just never seem to get to. Or, that itchy spot on your back that you just can’t manage to reach may come to mind.
That’s sort of a horrible experience, right? Having that itch and being desperate to get to that spot on your back. It’s the reason why back-scratchers exist.
Unfortunately, there’s no such device that can relieve itching inside of your ears. That itching sensation is coming from inside your ear canal, someplace that you can’t physically reach (regardless how hard you try). If you’re ear itches in this way, it’s even more aggravating than that spot on your back.
Itchy ears can impact your everyday life
It may sound like a minor issue, superficially. It’s just itchy ears, right? At least you’re not in horrible pain.
Here’s something to think about: There’s no relief for an itchy ear. No fuss, if it only happens once in a while. But if your ears are itchy constantly? It might end up having a real affect on your quality of life.
Maybe the sensation is so unpleasant that you stop eating out or seeing friends. Or perhaps you try to overpower the sensation by listening to excessively loud music.
It’s not at all fun. But there are solutions and treatments. Understanding what’s causing your itchy ears is the first measure to discovering the right treatment.
So what are some of the causes of itchy ears?
So why are your ears itchy? And what’s the solution? The solution for itching ears is going to differ depending on the underlying cause. Your ears could be being affected by many root causes, as with most medical conditions. Here are some of the most prevalent:
- Allergies: Allergies are tricky, and it’s not uncommon for them to cause itching. In some instances, an over-the-counter allergy medicine, such as an antihistamine, can alleviate itching caused by allergies. It’s often hard to identify exactly what you’re having an allergic reaction to. But a great many allergens, including pollen, can trigger itchy ears. Itchy ears could quickly come from your spring hay fever. If the itching persists, you should speak with an allergist about finding a solution (and relief).
- Ear infections: Yes, the regular old ear infection may be the culprit behind your misery. Ear infections can happen at any time in life but happen more often when you’re younger. Ear infection can cause an accumulation of fluid in your ear. Along with fluid buildup, swelling of the tissue can take place. Combined, this can result in trapped fluid, irritated tissue, and really itchy ears. The fix is to speak with your doctor and address the underlying infection. Your ears will normally stop itching when the infection goes away.
- You have an earwax blockage: Look, it’s completely normal for your ears to generate a copious amount of wax. You may be surprised to find out that wax is actually cleaning your ears. But there are a number of reasons why blockages can develop. One reason is because of the use of cotton swabs to “clean” your ears, so if that’s happening, you should stop immediately. We can, in any case, help you clear up any earwax troubles. So scheduling an appointment can help give you some relief.
- Skin disorders: Certain skin disorders can, occasionally, trigger itching that’s hard to get to. There’s even a condition called ear dandruff that can occur. You should talk to your doctor about what your options are. It’s not exactly convenient to slather your ear canal with moisturizer, after all, nor would we ever suggest you try. Again, your doctor will be the best one to help you treat skin conditions that trigger itchy ears!
- Improper hearing aid fitting: Your hearing aids should fit in your ears snugly. That’s how you get the optimum sound and the most effective results. But this snug fit can turn into irritation and itchiness when your hearing aids don’t fit properly. This, in turn, can cause you to stop wearing your hearing aids as often, and that can be bad for your hearing. Making an appointment with us for a proper fitting is the solution. We might even be able to mold your hearing aid so it better fits your ear.
Getting treatment for your itchy ears, and relief
Itchy ears can take the pleasure out of just about everything. Finding the best treatment, and getting sustained relief can be absolutely life changing. If you attempt to simply wait it out, you will probably extend your suffering because it’s not likely that the itching will go away on its own.
If you find that your itchy ears are driving you crazy, schedule an appointment with us so you can stop focusing on the itch, and get back to the normal, everyday activities you enjoy.